Cashiers are often paid minimum wages—or slightly more if they are lucky—and receive fewer benefits than workers with higher paying jobs. When they suffer injuries like arm and wrist injuries, back problems, and pinched nerves from the repetitive motions they perform daily, they suffer tremendous financial hardships if they must pay for expensive medical treatments and need to take time off from work. Sadly, many of their injuries could be prevented if they worked in safer work environments.

10 Steps Employers Should Take to Prevent Cashier Injuries

Many retail employers—such as Target, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, and Home Depot—could provide cashiers with more ergonomic work stations and have the financial means to do this. Some ways they could make a cashier’s job less repetitive and safer include:

Using a powered in-feed conveyer to avoid cashiers needing to lean over and reach items on the conveyor belt.

Using a “sweeper” to move items on a conveyor, so cashiers can easily reach items.

Placing the cash drawer and printer within easy horizontal reach of cashiers.

Installing check stands with adjustable sitting and standing or lumbar support that cashiers can lean against.

Providing foot rests and anti-fatigue mats in areas where cashiers stand for long periods of time.

Using keyboards to enter the quantity of identical items and to enter the product code if an item fails to scan twice.

Using front-facing check stands to reduce awkward twisting and reaching.

Adjusting the check stand height for the worker or providing him with a platform.

Having at least four inches of toe space at the bottom of the workstation to reduce reaching for items.

Training cashiers in the proper ways to lift heavier objects.

Employers like Target, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, and Home Depot not only fail to provide safe working conditions, but have also opted out of workers’ compensation as non-subscriber employers. However, if you were injured on the job, you could still be entitled to compensation for your lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Start an online chat to schedule a free consultation to learn about your legal options and how we can assist you.